2 Thalers

Historical Context: The Free Imperial City of Lüneburg issued this substantial 2 Thalers between 1581 and 1593. This late 16th-century period saw Lüneburg maintain significant economic power, primarily from its saltworks, underpinning its prosperity and autonomy within the Holy Roman Empire. The city council, acting as governing authority, authorized its own coinage, a powerful symbol of sovereignty and a practical necessity for trade. Issuing a double Thaler underscores the city's robust financial standing and participation in the broader European silver standard.

Artistry: While the specific engraver is largely unrecorded, the artistic style of this 2 Thalers aligns with the late German Renaissance. Civic coinage of this era typically features intricate heraldry, often displaying the city's arms prominently, frequently surmounted by an imperial eagle or crown. The reverse would likely bear a religious or allegorical motif, or a complex city inscription. Execution prioritized clear legibility and precise rendering of armorial bearings, reflecting civic pride and authority.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a substantial 57.5-gram silver flan, this 2 Thalers was produced using hammer striking, a method prone to variations. Key high-points susceptible to wear or weakness include highest relief elements like the city's crest, crown, or shield details. Collectors should inspect for full strikes in these areas. Typical technical qualities include broad, somewhat irregular flans, and occasional off-center strikes. Edges would be plain, standard for coins of this period, lacking later security features.